Showing posts with label top. Show all posts
Showing posts with label top. Show all posts

Winter Wardrobe No. 3 Zippered Sweatshirt

Today I'm excited to share number 3 on my DIY Winter Wardrobe list, the zippered sweatshirt. The inspiration for this item came from a few places. First, I've noticed a lot of cool sweatshirts in stores lately as well as unique zipper details. Next, I found this amazing Japanese knit. Visions of zippers, sweatshirts and lounge pants danced in my head. And the rest as the say is history.

Refashion – Zip Back T-shirt with Tutorial

Today I have a very easy, fun and satisfying DIY refashion to share with you. If you've ever inserted a zipper, this will be a breeze for you. Yesterday, in my DIY Outfit post I shared my inspiration for this top as well as sewing patterns and fabric to make it all yourself. If you don't feel like starting from scratch, you can grab a striped t-shirt from your closet or the local thrift store. Read on for all the how-to details.

Winter Wardrobe No. 5 Striped Top

Hey there crafty friends! Today I have number 5 on my list of DIY Winter Wardrobe sewing projects share with you. This is a knit striped top made from the (free!) Mandy Boat pattern by Tessuti. The pattern is one-size-fits all which will probably either make you gasp in horror or squeal in delight. To be honest during the sewing process, I wasn't sure if I was going to like this top. It was just so loose fitting. But after I tried it on I fell in love and did not take it off for the rest of the day. 

Delightful Detail - Lula's Bowtied Tee


Lula's Bowtied Tee from Anthropologie

Not only is the name of this blouse awesome, but the details are gorgeous. First off, we have the statement making  bow across the front. But then turn around and surprise, surprise a row of bound buttonholes down the center back. This blouse could easily go from work to party with a change of accessories. The classic cut is sure to make it a keeper for years to come.


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Vintage Sewing Patterns - Tie Neck Blouses


As I mentioned the other day, I love Tie Neck Blouses. Here are a couple of my favorite vintage patterns featuring a sweet little tie neck. Above is McCall 8396, circa 1951, which is actually a pattern for pants but the blouse on the model on the left is so chic. Did you notice that the pattern says McCall instead of McCall's? This pattern is actually available for sale from Etsy seller MollyPopVintage.


Next up is Simplicity 7896, circa 1977. I think I might have picked this one up at a thrift store somewhere. My favorite used to be the blue floral on the right but now I rather like the white blouse in the front.




Loop Edge Top


I had the idea for this blouse a while back. I started looking for a basic pattern in my stash and couldn't find one! So, I purchased Simplicity 2599 during the next pattern sale at JoAnn's. I used view C (minus the ruffles) as the basis for this blouse.
The element I wanted to feature most was the looped edging along the hem. The fabric is a light weight chambray.

A nice feature of this pattern is separate patterns for cup sizes (B, C and D). I often find myself taking in the back of my garments (more room needed on the front side than the back) so the sizing is appreciated. I cut a size 14, cup size D. The fit is roomy and comfortable but the shoulders are well-fitted (not too loose) and the dart is appropriately placed (see above). The pattern is very easy and I will probably use it again.

I made a double row of top stitching around the neck edge, back opening and armholes.

I decided to do 3 buttons for the back with tab style buttonhole extension.I made a pattern and cut 6 pieces (2 for each tab). Interfaced half the tabs. Stitched pairs right sides together, turned, pressed, top stitched and made buttonholes. They aren't perfect but I think they create a nice nautical look.


Above are some sketches of the blouse I did before embarking. I knew that I wanted to use a chambray and likely use the loop edging. I was also planning to add a pocket but haven't done it yet. What do you think? Should I add a pocket? I have more buttons to match those on the back. Pockets are so convenient.